The 2011 Barton Charter Yacht Regatta

We recently had great fun at the hire boat sailing regatta on Barton Broad. The Waterways Holidays team chartered ‘Tropical Wind’, a 29ft Bermudan rigged yacht from the marina at Upton on the Norfolk Broads.

A long established and popular event, the regatta takes place during Autumn each year and is open to participants who have previous sailing experience. Over 30 yachts compete in a series of races and enjoy social events, all culminating in an evening of good food and prize giving.

We asked Lesley at Waterways Holidays about her time at the 2011 Regatta, sponsored by Waterways Holidays.

Which races did you take part in? Did you win any?

We took part in the Shake Down Race, the All Comers Handicap Race, the Ladies Race and the Crews Race. Unfortunately on Monday the weather was too windy to sail. Very few competitors were able to sail Wednesday afternoon as there was not enough wind! We were joined by Tony Howes, who helmed the boat for the first time in the Crews Race.

We came second in the Crews Race, 15 seconds behind first place. We won the Martham Ferry Boatyard Trophy for Tuesday’s races. We came third in the Ladies Race after an unplanned detour!

What was the highlight?

It was great to feel part of such a fun and friendly event. I enjoyed the evening entertainment, sailing themed songs courtesy of Ted Handley and his harmonium.

Any words of advice for 2012 competitors?

Book a 7 night holiday on a sailing yacht so that you have a little time to familiarise yourselves with the yacht before you start. You’ll also get time at the end of the regatta for more relaxed sailing.

The most important thing to remember is that it’s the taking part that counts 🙂

Thanks Lesley for giving us your review of the Barton Broad Charter Yacht Regatta.

Why not take part next year? The 2012 Barton Charter Yacht Regatta is 13th – 20th October.

Click for: Norfolk Broads sailing holidays